ULAANBAATAR, MONGOLIA – Today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) awarded a grant to MIAT Airlines, Mongolia's state-owned air carrier, to develop a new strategic business plan and airline restructuring plan. This grant agreement was concluded during the visit of Vice President Joseph Biden to Mongolia.

In June 2011, during a visit by Mongolian President Tsakhia Elbegdorj to the United States, USTDA and MIAT executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding a program to encourage the development of Mongolia's civil aviation sector and address training and capacity needs to assist MIAT in the successful operation and expansion of the airline. The MOU was signed in Washington, D.C. by USTDA Director Leocadia I. Zak and MIAT Airlines President Orkhon Tseyen-Oidov on June 6, 2011.

This $400,000 grant signed today will support MIAT's planned fleet expansion and help to ensure greater air transport infrastructure for Mongolia's continued economic growth. The grant demonstrates the U.S. Government's broad commitment to support Mongolia, as highlighted by Vice President Biden on his trip to the country. It will also open opportunities for U.S. businesses to get involved in such a dynamic and growing market.

"The growth in the Mongolian aviation market is exciting, and we are proud to announce this support for MIAT's important expansion plans," stated Director Leocadia I. Zak.

"U.S. business is eager to work in Mongolia and this grant will assist in facilitating that relationship."

The opportunity to conduct the USTDA-funded technical assistance activity will be competed on the Federal Business Opportunities (FBO) website. A link to the FBO announcement will be posted to USTDA's website at www.ustda.gov. Interested U.S. firms should submit proposals according to the instructions in the FBO announcement. MIAT Mongolian Airlines will select the U.S. contractor that will complete the technical assistance.

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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority development projects in emerging economies. USTDA links U.S. businesses to export opportunities by funding project planning activities, pilot projects, and reverse trade missions while creating sustainable infrastructure and economic growth in partner countries.